Rajapalayam — Moon-white Sentinel of the South

A regal sighthound raised to guard and run

A large, muscular sighthound from Tamil Nadu, the Rajapalayam combines elegant lines with powerful bone and endurance. Historically used for hunting and estate guarding, it is instantly recognizable for a clean white coat, pink nose and confident, upright bearing. Loyal and protective of family, the Rajapalayam is alert and reserved with strangers, requiring consistent leadership and early social exposure.

Coat colours available — Primarily paper-white, rare exceptions only

The breed’s characteristic colour is milky white. Non-white individuals are uncommon and generally not preferred in traditional breed circles; pigmentation on skin or minor markings are occasional but not standard.

Coat type — Short, smooth, single layer made for heat

The Rajapalayam wears a short, close-lying single coat — smooth and low-profile rather than long or fluffy. This coat sheds heat instead of retaining it, making the dog physically suited to warm climates.

Shedding type — Low to moderate — easy to manage

Shedding is modest: there’s a steady, light loss of short hairs year-round with slightly heavier seasonal moulting. Regular brushing keeps the white coat tidy and reduces loose hair in the home.

Size and life expectancy — Large frame, a decade or more of companionship

Adults are substantial and athletic: heights commonly fall in the upper medium to large range and weights vary with sex and conditioning. Typical lifespan is around 9–13 years when kept fit and regularly checked by a veterinarian.

Adaptability to weather and tolerance limit — Thrives in heat, needs shelter from cold

Built for tropical and subtropical conditions, Rajapalayams tolerate heat well but are not comfortable in prolonged cold, damp, or snowy environments. They do best with shaded rest areas, access to fresh water in heat, and protection or warming in cooler climates.

Traits — Noble, watchful, independent — an attentive guardian

Rajapalayams are devoted to their household, naturally protective, courageous and independent. They bond deeply to family members, are wary of strangers, and display a strong prey and guarding instinct. They respond to firm, consistent leadership and benefit from structure, socialisation, and regular physical outlets.

Diets — Meat-forward nutrition, rehydrate and rotate

For practical feeding, dehydrated whole-food options are a good choice: nutrient-dense, shelf-stable, and easily rehydrated. Reconstitute dehydrated meals with warm water or broth (10–15 minutes) before serving so the food is easier to chew and digest, and to increase moisture intake for joint and kidney health.

Suggested dehydrated products (available from Green Fresh Pets) you can use as meals or high-value toppers/treats:

Dehydrated Whole Rabbit (Dog Treat) — lean single-ingredient protein good as a complete meal supplement or training reward.
Dehydrated Mutton Lung Chunks — nutrient-rich organ meat suitable as an occasional topper and chew.
Dehydrated Pig Heart (Dog and Cat Treats) — concentrated organ protein useful for rotation and micronutrient variety.
Dehydrated Pork Spleen — a mineral-dense single ingredient useful for variety and palatability.
Dehydrated Chicken Feet / Chicken Leg Bone (chew) — for occasional chewing and joint-support cartilage (feed under supervision).

Feeding notes for a big, active Rajapalayam:

match calories to activity — use manufacturer portion guides for rehydrated weight and adjust by body condition. When switching or rotating proteins, introduce gradually over 5–7 days to avoid digestive upset. For puppies and working adults, ensure adequate protein and balanced minerals; consult a veterinarian for an exact kcal target and to confirm that the dehydrated product used as a main meal meets complete-diet requirements.

Grooming necessities — Low fuss, consistent attention

Brush once or twice weekly with a soft bristle or rubber brush to remove loose hair and keep coat bright.
Bathe only when dirty to avoid stripping natural oils; use a mild dog shampoo.
Trim nails every few weeks or as needed; check paw pads for cracks.
Inspect and clean ears regularly; short ears can still harbour wax or mites if neglected.
Keep bedding clean to preserve the white coat and skin health.

Dental care — Daily habits protect long-term health

Brush teeth frequently (daily ideal; several times weekly minimum) using canine toothpaste.
Offer appropriate chew items and dehydrated chews to help mechanical tartar removal, but do not substitute for brushing.
Schedule periodic professional dental checks and cleanings as advised by the vet.

Common health issues — Generally sturdy but watch for a few breed risks

Congenital deafness can appear in white-coated lines; early hearing checks in puppies are recommended.
Skin sensitivity and parasitic skin conditions can occur if hygiene and parasite control lapse; light skin requires careful care.
Orthopaedic stress — as a large, active breed it can be prone to joint stress or dysplasia if overfed or exercised inappropriately while growing. Routine wellness screening, parasite prevention, and responsible breeding practices help reduce incidence of these problems.

Old age care — Comfort, mobility and closer monitoring

Reduce calorie density and provide easily chewable, rehydrated meals if dental wear is present.
Add or consider joint support (vet-recommended glucosamine/omega-3) and maintain lean body condition to reduce stress on hips and spine.
Replace high-impact exercise with gentle, regular walks and controlled play; consider hydrotherapy or physiotherapy when appropriate.
Increase frequency of veterinary checkups (bloodwork, dental, mobility assessments) to detect organ or metabolic changes early.
Prioritise comfortable bedding, non-slippery flooring, and easy access to water, food and exits to maintain dignity and mobility.